Essential oils and green living is all the rage right now, and for good reason!  There are SO MANY natural health benefits, but essential oils can also be a fun and great-smelling addition to your life.  If you are just getting started, or even if you are a seasoned expert, Simply Earth Essential Oil Recipe Box is an awesome way to experience a variety of quality tested 100% pure essential oils and learn tons of new ways to incorporate them into your daily regimen in just minutes a day.

Simply Earth is a small, family-run essential oils company based in Hingham, Wisconsin.  Each month, Simply Earth provides its subscribers with everything they need to make handmade natural products with friends & family, and to create a natural home – all for a great value.  I’ve been using essential oils for years and can attest to their life-changing therapeutic benefits, and I am absolutely THRILLED to be able to review this box for you!

Simply Earth Essential Oil Recipe Box is $39/month (+tax if applicable) with free US shipping (they also ship to Canada, but shipping fees apply), or there is a quarterly subscription option where you will receive one box every 3 months.  The quarterly subscription is $45 (+tax if applicable) every 3 months.  Every box is curated around a theme and includes 4 full-size essential oils + the toxin-free ingredients & containers you need to make 6 natural recipes.  As a member, you will also receive exclusive access to members-only discounts and sales on Simply Earth products in their shop.

*Use code CDMFREE at this link when you checkout to receive a $40 gift card in your first box!  (NOTE:  This code is for first-time subscribers only, and the gift card can be used on future purchases or your next box. The code is not a discount, but an additional incentive intended for first time subscribers.)*

DISCLAIMER:  I am a Simply Earth affliliate, and was provided this box at no cost in order to review it.  As an affiliate, I earn a small commission on sales which does not affect the price for the buyer using my links.  Please note however, that I *never* accept compensation in exchange for a positive review.  All of my reviews are my honest, personal opinions and contain my own photography (unless otherwise stated).

Simply Earth Essential Oil Recipe Box Review, November 2019

This is my very first Simply Earth Essential Oils Recipe Box, and pictured above is the complimentary ‘BIG BONUS BOX’ that subscribers receive along side their first box that includes a variety of supplies that work together with your oils to create recipes.  It has approximately $50 of FREE products in it, and the best part?  Subscribers get this free bonus box with every 6th box!!!  That is such a great perk I can’t even believe it!

Once subscribed/ordered, your box ships the next day and and will arrive 2-3 business days after that.  Your next box will be billed and shipped on the same day you placed your first order in.  You can cancel any time, or skip a box.

Simply Earth does monthly drawings for a free box, so be sure to post your recipe box photos to Instagram/Facebook for a chance to win!

The regular monthly recipe box is inside the bonus box, and underneath that are the bonus goodies.

Here is a first glance at all that is inside the big blue bonus box – and I haven’t even opened the monthly recipe box yet, so there is MUCH MORE!

These are all the items included in your complimentary starter box; we’ll take a closer look in just a moment!

This is the regular monthly box you will see starting with your second box, until you are eligible for your next big bonus box.

There were little photo stickers placed on the boxes that cracked me up – this one shows that my box was handpacked by CHERYL, which is MY name – ha!  It looks like they have some fun over at Simply Earth headquarters…

…and here’s what’s inside for November!

I know it’s a small thing and I’m weird, but I love how the colors are all coordinated to help you know what goes with what.  I think these kinds of details are important!

On the backs of the recipe cards are notes and additional information about the box.  This note is from Katie – a recipe formulator and certified aromatherapist.  She talks about the modifications and ways you can utilize the recipes in this month’s box to fit your personal needs.

This card shows how their referral program works; it is an opportunity for subscribers and their friends to receive free boxes!

This card is a breakdown of the items included in the monthly box (with descriptions), and a reminder that with Simply Earth you get quality ingredients without breaking the bank!  If you are already an essential oil lover, you’ve probably heard of all the ‘big dogs’ out there like doTerra and Young Living, which have fabulous oils, but they come with a hefty price tag.  Simply Earth is able to cut out the middle-man and work directly with the farmers to give you a more affordable value.

They also have a blog with lots of articles, recipes and fun things to read, as well as a free e-book you can download called “Essential Oils for Beginners”.

Simply Earth gives back!  With every box and purchase, you are helping in the fight against human trafficking.  This month, 13% of their profits go to “The Daughter Project“.  This is a cause very near & dear to my heart, and I couldn’t be more pleased that they chose it!  I have been a supporter of “The Starfish Project” for many years, and the effects of giving to these organizations transforms lives in such a wonderful way.

A sneak peak at December’s box!  The theme is ‘Gift Giving’, and I can’t wait to smell the Candy Cane Blend!  MMMM…candy canes…Fa-La-La!

Simply Earth also has a Facebook page exclusive to members to share recipes and ideas, ask questions and socialize with other ‘Earthies’ (LOL!)  I’ve not heard of that term until now, but in college we coined the phrase ‘Earth Muffins’.  Who knew I’d become one?!?  Total & complete over here…

Individual Items in the BIG BONUS BOX:

Simply Earth Coconut Oil (Solid) 12 fl oz – Retail Value $8.99

Coconut oil is the go-to ingredient for a ton of natural skincare products, and can also be used as a dietary supplement if it is food-grade.  When making recipes, it helps solidify the ingredients together and has a multitude of healthful benefits.  You can read about the top 10 evidence-based health benefits of coconut oil here.  I use it most often for making salves/ointments and lip balms – you melt it down, add your oils/herbs/flowers and then just let it cool down.

People have fallen head over heels for coconut oil and it’s not hard to see why!  Coconut oil is known for hydrating, soothing, and softening your skin.  It can also be a highly effective makeup remover, hair mask, facial moisturizer, and shaving lotion.  The uses are endless!

Coconut oil is an absolute staple for essential oil enthusiasts!

Simply Earth Beeswax 2 oz – Retail Value $3.99

Beeswax is another must-have staple in your essential oil arsenal, and these little pellets are MUCH easier to use than the solid blocks – especially for measuring.  There are white and yellow varieties, and Simply Earth has included the white variety, which is my preference – so, yay!  Just like the coconut oil, you melt it down, add your additional ingredients, and let cool.  Beeswax gives a more substantial solid (or dense) end result because it has a much higher melting point.

When used in making skincare products, beeswax creates a barrier which helps to seal moisture into the skin and allows it to breathe, and also helps protect the skin from toxins and environmental irritants.  You can read about 12 creative uses for beeswax and it’s benefits here.

Simply Earth Fractionated Coconut Oil (Liquid) 4 oz – Retail Value $7.99

Fractionated coconut oil, or “MCT” oil is most commonly used as a ‘carrier’ oil for essential oils to create roll-on blends, or to dilute the potency of some of the stronger essential oils that can cause irritation if used on their own.  With the same benefits of the solid coconut oil, it will not clog your pores and provides your skin with moisture and nutrients.

Simply Earth Almond Oil 4 oz – Retail Value $7.99

Almond Oil is like Goldilocks’ porridge: it’s just right. It isn’t too oily, but still moisturizes. It nourishes, but doesn’t clog pores. It is full of vitamins A, B, and E, promotes healthy skin, and can have a lasting effect on your hair and nails, too! What can’t sweet almond do?

The abundant Vitamin E in almond oil keeps your skin cells healthy, protects your skin from UV radiation damage, and helps your skin look smooth, soft, and free of fine lines. The fatty acids help your skin retain moisture and can heal chapped and irritated skin. Plus, it’s Vitamin A can help reduce acne.  This is a great oil for facial care!  You can read more about almond oil here.

(6) 10 mL Amber Glass Roller Bottles & (6) 5 mL Amber Glass Dropper Bottles – Retail Value $5.94 / $5.94 respectively.

Amber glass is best for storing essential oils because it’s great at preserving essential oil properties. This high-quality, durable amber glass bottle will be perfect to make your own ready-to-use essential oil creations.

Individual Items in the NOVEMBER 2019 BOX:

Behold Simply Earth’s batch-tested, 100% pure essential oil selections for November!  Not all essential oils are created equal, so it’s important to be diligent when selecting the oils you wish to use.  You want to look for purity, where the oil is from (grown) and it’s therapeutic grade classification.  Don’t just blindly order from any company – do your research!  I’ve done mine, and Simply Earth gets a thumbs up from this picky buyer.

Commitment to Quality

With the safety of your home in mind, we’re meticulous about every step of our process. To make sure each plant reaches its potential, we carefully and ethically choose a region where it will thrive. Then we work with our farmers. When our plants have reached maturity, they are harvested safely and fairly. From there we collect their natural essential oils through either cold-pressing or steam-distillation. Every batch is then tested to ensure 100% purity.

Here are the deets on each oil included in this box:

Cinnamon (Leaf) Essential Oil 15 mL – Retail Value $11.99

Smells like Fall!  Potent & spicy, you will want to be sure to use a carrier oil with one.  I love it for lip balms because it gives a ‘plumping’ effect!  It blends well with Clove Bud, Lavender, Cedarwood, Orange, Lemon, Neroli, Ylang-ylang, Rosemary and Thyme oils.  Like all essential oils, it has a plethora of benefits:

Ancient middle eastern cultures used Cinnamon Leaf for colds, flu, digestive issues, menstrual complaints, and as a general stimulant. Believed to be one of the oldest plants on Earth, it is still very popular for its various health benefits.  Uses: Promotes warmth when applied topically diluted to the skin, relieves chronic aches and discomfort, uplifts mood, helps combat seasonal illnesses and deters pests!

Eucalyptus (Globulus) Essential Oil 15 mL – Retail Value $9.99

This is my ALL TIME FAVORITE essential oil!  I absolutely adore the smell, and diffuse it almost daily.  Being that I live in an area where there are a ton of Eucalyptus trees, I am partial to it’s unique and clean-smelling fragrance.  Plus, it’ll clear your sinuses right up!  It blends well with Cajeput, Cedarwood, Citronella, Ginger, Lavender, Lemon, Myrtle, Frankincense, Spearmint and Tea Tree Oils.  The many benefits:

When first discovered in Australia, Eucalyptus treated everything from a cough to skin diseases. Eucalyptus leaves were minced to use for respiratory ailments, wounds, ulcers, aching joints, fevers, and dysentery. Today you could find Eucalyptus in cough syrups, toothpaste, and cosmetics.  Uses:  Uplifts mood, improves mental focus, refreshes, eliminates oily skin, supports respiration and relieves sore muscles.

Lime Essential Oil 15 mL – Retail Value $8.99

This lime smells sooooo good!  I’ve always loved the smell of lemon and grapefruit, but for some reason I rarely use lime, and this box has reminded me of how much I like it.  Lime oil’s tonic effect promotes a youthful appearance, and it can be helpful in lightening dark skin spots, so I like to use it in roller blends for my face and neck.  It blends well with: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Mandarin, Neroli, Nutmeg, Orange, Palmarosa, Petitgrain, Rose, Rosemary, Rosewood, Vetiver and Ylang-ylang oils.  Some of the other health benefits of lime include:

It is said that the mere inhalation of the beautiful citrus scent of lime can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and evoke alertness.  Massaging the oil can have a relaxing and stress-relieving effect.  Uses:  Uplifts mood, invigorates, and smells clean.

Tranquility Essential Oil Blend 15 mL – Retail Value $11.99

This is a beautiful blend of Lemon, Patchouli, Sweet Orange, Amyris & Ylang Ylang Essential Oils!  I’ve not encountered this particular mix before, and I’m enjoying it immensely in my diffuser at the moment.  I can really detect the Ylang Ylang and Patchouli, which are a couple of favorites of mine!  Some of the tranquility blend benefits include:

Tranquility Essential Oil Blend is a calming blend that promotes feelings of contentment, composure, and reassurance, helping you feel more at ease and bringing about a sense of well being when anxious feelings try to overwhelm your emotions.  Uses: Calms & relieves anxiety.

As a person with an anxiety disorder, I truly appreciate the oils that help relieve my symptoms!  This is a good blend for meditation, too.

Each bottle gives the specifics of that oil’s batch and origin, as well as a child safety rating.

Each oil bottle also comes with the ‘Simply Pure Promise’ that has a 365 day guarantee.

Creating New Standards

From displaying quality testing for our oils in the form of GC/MS reports for all our oils right on the product page to visiting our vetiver farm in Haiti, we are working on creating the standards for what it means to have high quality oils. All this is backed with our 365 day Simply Earth Guarantee.

The bottles come equipped with dropper attachments for easy measuring, and to prevent spillage.

Simply Earth Powdered Whole Milk & Dried Lavender Flowers – Retail Value $4.99? / $1  (NOTE:  The Simply Earth Shop does not currently have the powdered whole milk, so value is based on similar here.)

The powdered whole milk is included to make 2 of the recipes this month – the Oatmeal & Milk Bath, and the Lavender Buds & Tranquility Milk Bath.  It is soothing and skin softening!  The lavender buds are for the Lavender Buds & Tranquility Milk Bath (obviously), and the Eucalyptus Shower Steamers.  The lavender buds make any project SO pretty and fragrant!  I like adding lavender essential oil to the buds and putting them in a sachet to keep my closet and clothing drawers smelling nice.

Dried lavender buds are just like the essential oil. They are incredibly soothing and calming. It can be used in soap, potpourri sachets, and a relaxant to be placed under the pillow.

One small tea bag was included for the Oatmeal and Milk Bath, however they don’t currently have any for sale in the shop. I’m guessing the cost is negligible, so I’m not including it in my review.  You can snag these on Amazon in bulk for cheap if you plan on making a bunch of them.

Lime and Eucalyptus Roll On Recipe Card (All the items needed to create this recipe are provided in the box, and a review of this recipe is included below!)

Eucalyptus Shower Steamers Recipe Card  (Most of the items needed to create this recipe are provided in the box except the baking soda and ice cube tray, but I had those, so I was good to go.  A review of this recipe is included below!)

Oatmeal & Milk Bath Recipe Card (Most of the ingredients needed to create this recipe are provided in the box except the baking soda and oatmeal, but I had those and decided to give it a whirl!  A review of this recipe is included below!)

Tranquility and Lime Diffuser Blend Recipe Card  (All of the ingredients needed to create this recipe are provided in the box, but I’m a slacker and didn’t make this one for the review.)

Chai Tea Bath Salts Recipe Card (I’m dying to make this one, but I need to grab a few of the ingredients first!  Starred items on the recipe cards are the ingredients not included in the box.)

Lavender Buds & Tranquility Milk Bath Recipe Card  (All but one of the ingredients needed to create this recipe are provided in the box, but of course I don’t have it.  Ack!  Who doesn’t have Epsom salt?!?  Me.)

Simply Earth even includes color coordinated stickers for your oils and projects – they’ve thought of everything!  Here is my one tiny complaint.  You have to CUT the stickers out yourself, and I SUCK at it.  I did OK with the square ones, but the circles not so much.  It looks like a 4 year old cut those out.  I know that’s a lame complaint, but I’m just sayin’.

Simply Earth Recipes Made By Yours Truly:

Project #1:  OK, so here’s the layout for the Lime & Eucalyptus Roll On project – it’s my speed – it takes 60 whole seconds to create once you have everything ready.  I got that mini-funnel a long time ago and now I have the perfect use for it because I’m terribly clumsy.

So, are you ready?  You pour the fractionated coconut oil into roller up to the top (10 mL).  You add 3 drops of the Eucalyptus Essential Oil, and 3 drops of Lime Essential Oil, and TA-DA!  DONE!  It doesn’t get any easier than that, and it smells delicious.

Here’s the one bad thing that happened.  My rollers wouldn’t roll!  Seriously.  The little metal ball on the roller top was fitted too tight, and wouldn’t roll the oil onto my skin.  I was a little bit of a spaz and made my forearm all red and raw attempting to get any of the 6 roller balls included to work, and NOPE.  I even tried popping the ball out and back in, with no success.  The good news is I contacted customer service with my plight, and they are sending me 6 new ones STAT; must have been a bad batch.  So, no harm, no foul.  It happens.  In the meantime, I am just using my little bottle very carefully with my finger to dab the blend onto my pulse points for anxiety relief and an uplifted mood.

Here is the label on my first project!  It is perfect for my purse, and everyone asks me what that delightful smell is.  🙂

Project #2:  Eucalyptus Shower Steamers – another lightning quick recipe that takes about 5 minutes to make, but then 24 hours to set.

I used a double boiler for this one to melt the (solid) coconut oil, but you can also microwave the coconut oil in 30 second intervals if don’t have a double boiler, or don’t feel like using one.

Once the coconut oil is melted, you simply add the rest of the ingredients and stir together until it’s mixed and crumbly.  Easy-peezy, lemon-squeezy!

Then you pack the mixture into the ice cube tray, and let it dry/set for 24 hours.  My tray makes GIGANTIC ice cubes, so I only got 5 steamer cubes, but a normal-sized ice cube tray would make a few more.

They turned out great!

It was a little tricky popping them out without crumbling, but I managed to get a few solid cubes.  Pretty!  I put the good ones in a mini Ziploc bag, and salvaged the rest of the mix that didn’t make it into a separate bag, because it still works!  You just place them (or sprinkle them) on your shower floor and inhale deeply.  It is an awesome treatment for congestion, which comes in the form of allergies for me, and your bathroom will also be Eucalyptus-Lime Heaven.  For an extra punch, you can simultaneously diffuse a few drop of the Eucalyptus and/or Lime essential oils while you shower with the steamers.

Project #3 – Oatmeal & Milk Bath.  Time to make: 2 minutes.  I’ve got this!  For this recipe I used a small hand-held coffee grinder for the oatmeal, baking soda and powdered milk, then just added the Cinnamon & Eucalyptus Essential Oils.  I would never in a million years have thought that combo would work, but it totally does!  It got me in the mood for a cinnamon latte.

You just scoop the mix into the tea bag and you have yourself a luxurious milk bath!

The label looks super cute on this, and the milk bath mix made my skin silky soft – this is my favorite recipe so far!!

So what do you think of the November 2019 Simply Earth box?  Are you ready for essential oils in your life?!?  I personally think this box is AMAZEBALLS, and as a lover of all things relating to essential oils, I am super impressed with the quality and usability of this subscription.  I just wish I had known about it when I first started my holistic journey!  The total (current) estimated retail value of the monthly box is $48.95 (not including the tea bag, recipe cards or label stickers), which I think is extremely fair for a $39 box with 4 full-size essential oils and additional ingredients.  That really is a HUGE value comparatively to other essential oils out there of equal quality.  The bonus box with it’s value of $40.84 (or about $50 if you factor in taxes/shipping for retail) is a wonderful perk that I so very much appreciated as well!  So as a first box goes, a total value of $90+ ROCKS for all that you receive!  I had a really good time with this (with some pretty hilarious moments), and I’m hoping to get to review their next box!

Don’t forget!  Use code CDMFREE at this link when you checkout to receive a $40 gift card in your first box!  (NOTE:  This code is for first-time subscribers only, and the gift card can be used on future purchases or your next box. The code is not a discount, but an additional incentive intended for first time subscribers.)

TTFN, CrazyDogMama – XOXO